Note to editors: Please find attached soundbite in English and Afrikaans by Leon van Wyk
The DA in Theewaterskloof welcomes the Order by the Western Cape High Court that outlines the process to restore the rule of law at Knoflokskraal and the gathering of information necessary to enable evidence-based decision-making relating to the unlawful occupation of the land.
This is an example of the DA in government stopping chaos and securing delivery for all.
The National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will now proceed to implement a court-sanctioned service and notification process in preparation of the main application to the High Court that is expected to take place in February 2027.
We believe that from an infrastructure and human settlements perspective, this development is significant because it advances a court-supervised process concerning occupied national government property.
Three issues deserve particular attention:
1. Intergovernmental coordination will be undertaken to clarify the respective responsibilities of national, provincial and municipal authorities.
2. In terms of housing and humanitarian considerations, this will establish whether the proceedings could create obligations concerning emergency accommodation or
other support.
3. The defined process will enable the monitoring of legal and operational readiness for the envisaged Court hearing in February and any implications for the Western Cape’s Provincial Departments.
This approach is intended to ensure affected parties are given proper notice and have a reasonable opportunity to participate in the legal process.